Thailand – Part 1, Bangkok

If you aren’t among the millions of gay tourists that have travelled and fallen in love with Thailand, read on. When you are finished, be sure to check out our related tours at the bottom of this article. Our March 1st departure of Comfort Thailand will be hosted by Co-Founder Robert Sharp and is filling fast.

Thailand can offer a completely different experience than any place you have been. In Thailand, gay men are not only welcomed but they are embraced, and in general the Thai people will make you feel that their home is your home. This “land of smiles” as many call it can offer a very well rounded vacation for all types of travellers.

Whether you are interested in experiencing Thai food, the local culture, the history or even just to work on your tan while sporting the latest aussieBum swimwear collection – there is something for you.

Upon arrival in Thailand, we always recommend a few days to get to know Bangkok and to adjust to the climate and culture. Known as the City of Angels, Bangkok is the center of gay life in Asia.

From bears to twinks to every shape size and age of man (or woman), this the place to go if you want to experience a unique Asian culture with a very gay-welcoming atmosphere. This is a city with a rich culture and history; so you can dive into the local culture during the day, eat wonderful meals and experience a vibrant night life.

One of the most popular destinations in Bangkok is the Damnoen Saduak floating market. You can sample local food while an experienced guide will take you on a boat ride through the canals where you can purchase tons of souvenirs for friends and family back home.

Thailand is full of majestic temples that will impress any western visitor with their splendour. Wat Trimitr, Wat Po and Wat Banjamaborpitr are three of the most beautiful. Plan to bring your camera and try to hire a local guide so you can learn the rich history and nuance of each and every place of worship.

The Grand Palace is the most popular tourist destination in the city. For centuries it was the residence of Thailand’s powerful kings. Make sure you take time to see the Reception Palace, the Funeral Palace, The Throne Hall and the beautiful revered Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Just be prepared; the Thais take their temples seriously and will not let you inside if you are wearing shorts or flip flops.

When you are done sightseeing Thailand offers nearly every type of cuisine from traditional Thai food to classic Western cuisine. No matter what your tastes, you should be able to satisfy your hunger before your night on the town!

If the vibrant nightlife interests you, then you will need to check out Surawong Road – the capital of gay nightlife in Bangkok. For those nights where you just want to eat and drink in a friendly setting check out Silom 4 a wonderful gay area with bistros with cold drinks and good food where you can chill out and talk with other cool guys!

Petchaburi Road features gay karaoke and good drinks. If that’s your thing, you’ll have a great night belting out the classics!

The Sapan Kwai and Kao San Road areas of the city feature gay venues that cater almost exclusively to local Thais. These are nowhere near as western friendly as the other gay sections of town, but if you are brave and friendly, you will likely have a great time. Of course, like any city, the hot spots in Bangkok come and go constantly. What’s cool today might not be hot tomorrow and new places are popping up all the time.

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Suggested Bangkok Hotel:

Silom Serene Boutique Hotel
The Silom Serene hotel is an affordable gay-friendly hotel that is used on all OUT Adventures Comfort and In Style trips. Book with us for special rates.
http://www.silom-serene.com

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Suggested Thailand Trips departing from Bangkok:

Thailand Hike, Bike & Raft – 13 days, $1025 per person
Trip Style – Active
2009 Departures: Jul 27, Nov 30

OUT Adventures Gay & Lesbian Thailand Hike, Bike & Raft

Comfort Thailand – 10 days, $1015 per person
Trip Style – Comfort
2009 Departures: Mar 01, Jul 12, Aug 02, Aug 23, Oct 04, Oct 18, Nov 08, Dec 06

OUT Adventures Gay & Lesbian Thailand Trip

Ancient Kingdoms of Thailand – 7 days, $1345 per person
Trip Style – In Style
2009 Departures: Jul 19, Dec 13

OUT Adventures Gay & Lesbian Ancient Kingdoms of Thailand Trip

Thailand Family Adventure – 14 days, $1015 per person
Trip Style – Family
2009 Departures: Jul 19, Dec 21

OUT Adventures Gay & Lesbian Family Vacation

Bangkok Experience – 5 days, $575 twin
Trip Style – Independent
2009 Departures: flexible

OUT Adventures Gay & Lesbian Bangkok Experience

Phuket Beach Break – 5 days, $330 twin
Trip Style – Independent
2009 Departures: flexible

OUT Adventures Gay & Lesbian Phuket Beach Break

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Useful Links:

Utopia Asia Thai Tips 
OUT Adventures Gay & Lesbian Tours